Need? Or want?

Desiring, craving, or wishing for something is distinct from the must-have state of necessity. I’ve mixed these concepts up at different periods in my life. Seduced by trappings I felt would make me feel successful, at one point I thought I needed that promotion, trophy house, or best-selling book. Why? I’m not sure now.

Okay. Yes. I’d still like a best-selling book or two, but I don’t need one to feel good about my life, or my writing. Aside from life sustaining nutrients, self-supporting finances, and the freedoms of this country, I need a loving family, deep friendships, and meaningful work.

But my wants grow bigger every year. I want world peace, equality, trust, and love in the world. I want diseases cured, children educated, hunger eliminated, gun violence abated, books not banned, and an enduring planet for everyone’s children and grandchildren.

Basically, I want what could be. I want a world where we all show up, with the best of who we are at a core level, to create a better future for all of us. I want a world where it doesn’t matter where we live, what we look like, who we love, how we worship or not – a world where civility, compassion, truth, understanding, opportunity, and human rights are not just words.

What about you? What are your needs? Your wants?